JK Simmons Recalls Stan Lee's Praise for J. Jonah Jameson Role

Actor JK Simmons reminisces about receiving high praise from Stan Lee for his iconic portrayal of J. Jonah Jameson in Sam Raimi's 'Spider-Man' trilogy, despite facing tough competition for the role. Simmons, an acclaimed actor, shared this memorable compliment while reflecting on his extensive career.

Actor JK Simmons, celebrated for his role as J. Jonah Jameson in Sam Raimi's 'Spider-Man' trilogy, shared with Deadline that he received a remarkable compliment from Stan Lee, the legendary book writer, editor, publisher, and producer.

Best known for his longstanding portrayal of the anti-Spidey editor from The Daily Bugle, Simmons has earned numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and a Golden Globe Award for his supporting role in Damien Chazelle's independent film 'Whiplash'. Reflecting on his career, Simmons recounted receiving a 'great compliment' from Marvel creator Stan Lee for his portrayal in Sam Raimi's 'Spider-Man' (2002), especially given Lee's initial personal aspirations for the character.

'I had never met Stan and didn't even know - and this is sort of apparent to anyone truly paying attention or smarter than I am - that JJJ was somewhat based on Stan himself,' Simmons told GQ. 'He confessed that he was a bit jealous for not being asked to play the part in the film. But after seeing me perform, he thought I was fantastic. It was truly a great compliment coming from him.'

Stan Lee, who co-created Spider-Man with Steve Ditko in 1962, passed away in 2018 at the age of 95. Lee made cameo appearances in Marvel movies since 2002's 'Spider-Man'. Simmons has continued to portray J. Jonah Jameson in films including 'Spider-Man 2' (2004), 'Spider-Man 3' (2007), 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' (2021), and 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' (2023), according to Deadline.

(With inputs from agencies.)